Cabras 1 Diesel Power Plant, Guam | United States Power Generation

Cabras 1 is a diesel power plant located in Guam, an unincorporated territory of the United States. With a capacity of 212 MW, it is a significant facility for the island's power generation, serving as a key source of electricity for residential and commercial consumers. The plant is owned and operated by Guam Power Authority, the primary utility provider on the island. The plant operates on oil as its primary fuel, a common choice for island power systems due to logistical considerations. As a diesel power plant, it falls under the regulatory oversight of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and must comply with the Clean Air Act, including standards for emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter. The facility's technology and age are typical for mid-sized diesel plants, though specific technical details such as turbine type or heat rate are not publicly available. Cabras 1 plays a critical role in Guam's energy security, providing reliable power to a population of over 150,000. Its location near the coast raises considerations for environmental management, including fuel storage and emissions control. The plant's operation is essential for the island's economy and daily life, supporting everything from tourism to military installations. Ongoing efforts to diversify Guam's energy mix may influence the plant's future role.

Cabras 1's operation as an oil-fired diesel plant contributes to local air emissions, including CO2, SO2, and NOx, which are regulated under the U.S. Clean Air Act. The plant's proximity to populated areas in Guam requires careful management of air quality impacts. Fuel storage and handling also pose risks to the surrounding marine environment, necessitating spill prevention measures. The facility's age and technology may result in higher emissions per MWh compared to modern combined-cycle plants.